The city of Chalchuapa hosted a meeting between the Secretary of Culture, Dr. Ramón Rivas and members of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Municipal Council to analyse the benefits obtained with the creation of the Youth Philharmonic of Chalchuapa.
According to Jorge Ibáñez from the City Council of Chalchuapa the Youth Philharmonic has been successful in preventing many young people to be easy prey to violence and criminal groups.
"According to statistics of the National Civil Police (PNC) we were among the most violent cities in the department of Santa Ana. Due to the formation of the Philharmonic we have managed to reduce violence and have seen young people in high-risk areas to join this project that seeks to prevent youth violence”, he said.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of Culture was willing to continue working with this type of project that benefits youth, expanding opportunities for their development. "They have managed to reach the youth from what they like most. And we as the Secretariat of Culture want to continue working with you to raise awareness of young talent, "said Dr. Ramón Rivas.
In order to demonstrate the artistic power of the Youth Philharmonic of Chalchuapa, the members gave a concert for the Secretary of Culture, Dr. Rivas, in the Teatro Municipal.
“I command the work of the teacher and director, René Durán, and each of you who make up the Youth Philharmonic. There is no doubt it will go far because you have found the best way to develop your artistic talents”, he said.
The Youth Philharmonic of Chalchuapa is a project supported by the Ministry of Culture, USAID and the Municipal City Council. It was created in October 2012 and currently has 35 members.